Unraveling the history of Attica at its squares
The squares of Attica, the Greater Athens Region, are bustling places of social and cultural interaction. Travelers and locals often choose a square to take a rest and relax, getting a vibrant sense of the city. Most squares have their own history, worth being narrated!
The “centerpiece” of Athens is Syntagma Square (Square of the Constitution), located opposite to the building of the Hellenic Parliament. Its current name is attributed to the civil turbulence of 1843, when king Otto was forced to give the first constitution to the risen greek people. Destress by strolling around the adjacent National Garden, a notable example of landscape architecture of the 19th century. Watching the change of guards at the tomb of the Unknown Soldier in front of the parliament, is a must-see.
A popular meeting point for both visitors and Athenians, Monastiraki Square was constructed when Athens became the capital of the newly-established Greek State in 1834. A few decades later, just like the entire area, the square was named after the diminutive given to the Great Monastery of Pantanassa, and… that’s how Monastiraki came to existence! Currently it is a parish church, and along with the Tzistarakis Mosque and the Hadrian’s Library, they form a “triangle” of different historic periods of Monastiraki.
In the heart of the beautiful neighborhood of Plaka, Philomousos Etaireias square is spread along Kydathinaion street. Its name means the Society of Friends of the Muses and comes from the Philomuse Society of Athens which promoted the return of the Letters to Ottoman occupied Athens. In its current form, the square features dozens of bars, cafés and restaurants, turning the square into a vivid and lively part of the city.
Nestled on the foothills of Lycabettus mountain, Dexameni Square at Kolonaki was named after the Hadrian’s Reservoir, in Greek “Dexameni”, built in the 2nd cent. AD, part of the aqueduct serving Athens for centuries. Nowadays, it opens its doors only once a year, on the great orthodox holiday of Epiphany, for the “Blessing of Waters” celebration. The square has been a lodge of the intellectual elite during the 19th – 20th centuries, where eminent Greek authors and poets, such as Papadiamantis, Varnalis and Sikelianos, used to hang out at its legendary café. Today, it is a hotspot for locals who love its vibrant yet cozy atmosphere.
The cool neighborhood of Pagkrati is known for its squares, where people of all ages meet, gather and enjoy their walks. Proskopon Square, probably the most famous one, was a haunt of intellectuals and artists during the 80s’; actually, its unofficial name is Manos Hatzidakis Square, since the legendary composer and musical genius of Greece used to spend his time there, making it a magnet for other famous personas of arts and culture.
Of course, every single area of Attica boasts its own squares, small breaths of fresh air for locals. In addition to the above squares near the city center, Attica has too many choices for you to explore. Don’t miss out on visiting Kastalia Square at Marousi, known for its fountain. Legend has it that Castalia was the nymph presiding over the spring of life. In order to praise her, the first residents of the neighborhood gave her name to the small square that supplied water to the entire area.
When in Piraeus, don’t skip visiting Dimotiko Theatro Square where the Municipal Theater of Piraeus looms. This true gem of architecture is a neoclassical building whose façade is decorated with four Corinthian order columns, whereas its imposing scene is one the few still standing examples of the baroque era in Europe.
The central square of Lavrion is also quite interesting. Plan a daily excursion at the area and gaze at the neoclassical buildings sprawling around. Take a close look at the sculptural synthesis of the Miners, dedicated to the people who became part of the mining history of the town.
Another option is a visit to the idyllic village of Vilia, whose central square boasts the impressive temple of the Transfiguration of the Savior, a magnificent byzantine church built by Ernest Ziller in 1893. Next to it, a small post-byzantine chapel is dedicated to the Glorious Taxiarches, standing out for its old frescos and pebbled flooring.
The heart of Attican islands also beats at their squares. When in Poros, Karamanou Square (also known as the Town Hall square) and its iconic marble fountain are ideal for a short stop while taking pleasure in your beverage at any of its surrounding coffeeshops. Visit the small Square of Poros and experience a mesmerizing sunset at the Clock Tower! Built in 1927, the clock features an elaborate mechanism from America, visible from the ground floor. Named after the eminent clock tower built in 1915, the main Clock Square of Spetses hosts some must-try restaurants with local dishes.
Open spaces, unhindered view towards the blue sky, countless spots for relaxation and daydreaming; the squares of Attica, the Greater Athens Region, are so much loved by visitors and locals. Their paved grounds narrate modern urban stories, infused with the history of years bygone. No matter where you are, opt for a square and feel the unique vibe!
